Frank R. Taylor

Frank R. Taylor, 76, of Santa Fe passed away at home surrounded by his loved ones on Monday, July 8, 2024.

In accordance with his wishes, cremation will take place. A Celebration of Frank’s Life will be held at ten o’clock in the morning on Saturday, July 20, 2024 at the Fine Arts Center Theatre of Western New Mexico University in Silver City with Honors accorded on behalf of the New Mexico State Police Honor Guard. Serving as Pallbearers will be his eldest grandsons, Estevan Taylor-Martinez, Taylor Martinez, Isaiah Taylor, and Zac Taylor Salgado. Honorary Pallbearers are Marcos Berry, Alvan Abeyta, Fabian and Ezekiel Gomez, Alex Taylor, Jackie Rael, Ret. Deputy Chief David Osuna, and all his nieces, nephews and grandchildren.

Frank was born October 6, 1947 in Magdalena, NM to Esfren “Frank” Taylor and Otilia “Tila” Cisneros. He was raised by his stepfather, Faron Gutierrez, after losing his father at 10 years old. He was a 1965 graduate of Magdalena High School. On September 2, 1968 he married the love of his life, Gloria Marie Gutierrez. They would spend over 50 years together and raise three children, a son and two daughters.  Frank pursued higher education at Western New Mexico University, completing his bachelor’s degree in education in 1973.  In 1971, Frank received his calling to law enforcement, joining the ranks of the Silver City Police department. He attained the rank of sergeant before leaving the department and becoming an officer of the NMSP. His career would take him all over New Mexico and beyond. In 1995, Frank was appointed Chief of the New Mexico State Police by Governor Gary Johnson. He would serve a total of 8 years under Governor Johnson. Following his tenure as Chief, Frank accepted a position as the General Operations Manager of the International Law Enforcement Academy in Roswell, New Mexico. During his time there, he oversaw the training and education of law enforcement officials from various countries around the world. In 2017, Frank and Gloria retired to Santa Fe where Frank would spend the rest of his life surrounded by those he loved most.

Frank was an enthusiastic deer hunter all his life, spending a significant part of each Fall in Datil and Magdalena, usually with one or more child or grandchild in tow. He kept his shot sharp with regular trips to the range, often using them as an opportunity to educate and instill in his loved ones a sense of confidence and responsibility. He had a rigorous work ethic and would keep himself busy as often as he could, whether it was a home improvement project or sorting his change while watching the “boob tube”. Time spent with family held great meaning for him. Frank loved to joke and to make people laugh. Humility, Respect, Perseverance and Faith were among his strongest ideals. The affectionate memories of “Chief Taylor” collected and treasured by so many people over the years are too numerous to count. His time in this world has ended, but his legacy will live perpetually in the hearts of his loved ones and those whose lives he has touched.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Frank R. Taylor, please visit our floral store.